About Me

Helping people understand the reasons why they act the way they do from a brain-based perspective is one of my passions. Once we begin to comprehend the impact that trauma has on the brain and body, the shame we feel about our behaviors and reactions starts to fall away. Working from this place of self-compassion allows healing to begin. Helping clients heal from trauma, whether big or small, can change the trajectory of their lives.

My mission is to help people grow and develop the strength and resiliency they need to thrive in their environment. In addition to understanding how trauma affects them physiologically, I want clients to understand how resilient they are and discover the power they possess within themselves to heal. Harnessing this power allows them to set out on a new path and create the life they want for themselves.

Because trauma and addiction are so often intertwined, my specialty is exploring the intersection of trauma and substance use with adults as well as adolescents. Substance use is still heavily stigmatized, but if we can understand it as a way of coping instead of a character flaw, we can create more space for compassion and healing.

My brain-based perspective and approach are supported by Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR), an evidence-based modality that taps into the natural brain’s ability to heal from trauma. Utilizing EMDR, clients can target troubling experiences from the past and, through a gentle desensitization process, enable those memories to recede and lessen in emotional intensity. One of the reasons I decided to become trained in EMDR is because I love how it can help people process traumas without repeatedly talking about the worst moments of their lives.

My sweet spot is working with adolescents who are struggling with trauma and, potentially, substance use addiction. My experience working with young adults in the university setting gave me a perspective on how stressful this period of life can be with its competing priorities of building a social life while also focusing on academic pursuits.

With experience working with adolescents in a variety of settings, I have gotten to know, understand, and develop a particular affinity for this age group. As a therapist, I can connect with teens and adults alike so that they feel heard rather than judged. For me, creating a safe space where people feel willing to be vulnerable makes all the difference.